MetraMarket isn’t just a market—it’s a community hug. Fresh local produce, handmade bread, sizzling tacos, and friendly smiles. Grab a bite here, and you’ll taste the true flavor of everyday Chicago life.




















Everything you need to know about MetraMarket
Chicago Downtown Marriott is a top choice located just a 5-minute walk from MetraMarket. This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and complimentary parking. Its central location provides easy access to CTA trains, making it simple to reach popular attractions like Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, and Willis Tower.
The hotel also features a locally inspired restaurant serving authentic American cuisine. With a mere 10-minute walk to MetraMarket, guests can conveniently shop for fresh local produce and experience the vibrant community atmosphere of Chicago’s urban heart—perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and authenticity.
From MetraMarket, walk about 15 minutes to Union Station, Chicago’s main transit hub. Here, you can board the Blue Line or Green Line trains for quick access to major destinations like Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute.
Union Station itself is a historic landmark with stunning vaulted ceilings and boutique shops—ideal for a brief break. For a more convenient option, use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, which take around 10 minutes and cost approximately $15–$20.
We recommend downloading the CTA Official App to check real-time train schedules and optimize your journey—ensuring a smooth and stress-free trip.
MetraMarket is more than a grocery stop—it's a cultural hub showcasing Chicago’s community spirit. Every Saturday morning, the market hosts a bustling farmers’ market featuring over 50 local vendors offering artisanal cheese, blackberry jam, craft beer, and handmade goods.
Live music performances by jazz and folk bands create a warm, neighborhood vibe. The market also includes a free cooking demo zone, where local chefs teach visitors how to make classic dishes like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs.
Additionally, guided tours of the on-site urban garden reveal innovative sustainability practices such as vertical farming and rainwater harvesting. These hands-on experiences offer an authentic glimpse into Chicago’s local identity and innovative community living.
Absolutely. The MetraMarket area is ideal for families, offering a safe, welcoming environment with ample family-friendly amenities. Nearby South Side Children’s Park features slides, sand pits, and outdoor play zones perfect for kids to burn off energy.
The adjacent Chicago Public Library Branch provides free children’s reading corners and regular parent-child workshops. Local eateries like Mama’s Kitchen and Brew & Bites offer high chairs, kid-friendly menus, and healthy meal options.
With excellent transit links, families can easily reach top attractions such as the Chicago Museum of Science & Industry and Zoo via the Blue Line in under 30 minutes. The area seamlessly blends daily life charm with recreational convenience, making it a prime base for families seeking authentic Chicago experiences.
Near MetraMarket in Chicago, Hyatt House Chicago/Milwaukee Avenue is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk from the market. It offers modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Its prime location provides easy access to the Blue Line train station, connecting you quickly to Michigan Avenue, Chicago Union Station, and Millennium Park.
Guests can enjoy fresh local produce and handmade goods at the market early in the morning while soaking in authentic Chicago neighborhood vibes. The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center and convenient parking.
Another excellent option is The Guest House Hotel, blending industrial-chic design with local art and community culture. With an on-site café and rotating exhibitions, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a unique, locally inspired stay.
The easiest way to reach MetraMarket from downtown Chicago is via the Blue Line train. Board at Clark/Lake Station, head toward Forest Glen, and exit at Milwaukee Ave Station, a 3-minute walk from the market. The trip takes about 15 minutes and costs only $2.50.
Alternatively, take CTA Bus #60, which runs along North Ave and stops near Milwaukee Ave, though travel time may vary due to traffic.
Rideshare options like Uber or Lyft take approximately 10 minutes and cost $12–$18, ideal for travelers with luggage or groups. However, the Blue Line remains the most efficient and affordable choice, avoiding downtown congestion. Use a Ventra card or mobile app for seamless ticketing and faster boarding.
Near MetraMarket, visitors can enjoy a range of unique experiences: start your day at the weekend farmers' market, sampling organic produce, artisanal bread, and freshly brewed coffee from local vendors.
Explore Humboldt Park, a vibrant urban oasis offering green spaces, cultural events, and seasonal festivals. Just a short walk away, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) hosts cutting-edge exhibitions and interactive workshops.
Head to the Little Village neighborhood for authentic Mexican cuisine—try handmade tacos and handcrafted chocolate. For history lovers, the Chicago Public Library – Main Branch offers fascinating exhibits and archival collections that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
These experiences blend food, art, culture, and community life, offering a true taste of Chicago’s diversity and spirit.
See what other travelers say about MetraMarket

Staying at Hotel Felix in Chicago's North Loop was a great experience. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient to explore downtown and the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, so dining options are never an issue. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The only downside was a plumbing issue on our last day, which meant we had to take a cold shower—minor inconvenience, but nothing major. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value, clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.

Staying at Hotel Lincoln was an absolute delight. The lake-view room offered breathtaking views of the water—just opening the curtains in the morning felt like a little escape. Right outside the hotel, a short walk across the street leads straight to Lincoln Park and the Museum of History, making it incredibly convenient for exploring without needing transportation. The neighborhood is quiet yet vibrant, with plenty of dining options nearby. The location, comfort, and overall experience made this stay unforgettable. Highly recommend this gem in Chicago.

Staying at The Midland Hotel was an absolute delight! Located just a short walk from downtown Chicago, the hotel offers unbeatable convenience—everything from shopping to dining is within easy reach. The lobby has a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Our room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully appointed with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The bathroom was modern and well-equipped, with strong water pressure and a refreshing shower experience. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, delicious, and offered a great variety of options. What stood out most was the excellent value for money. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers on every level. I’d definitely recommend it and will be returning soon.

Staying at Freehand Chicago was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown, with easy access to public transit and all the major attractions just a short walk away. The vibe of the hotel is cool and modern, with a great mix of comfort and style. While the rooms are on the smaller side, they’re thoughtfully designed and make excellent use of space—plus, everything you need is included. It’s such a smart choice for travelers who value convenience and atmosphere without breaking the bank. I couldn’t be happier with my stay and would definitely come back again.

Staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection - Ambassador Gold Coast was a fantastic experience overall. The room was spacious and immaculately clean, offering plenty of comfort for a relaxing stay. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk to downtown Chicago, with shops, cafes, and restaurants right on the doorstep. I loved how close it was to a local Starbucks too, perfect for that morning coffee fix without having to go far. The neighborhood feels safe, quiet, and well-connected, making it ideal whether you're exploring the city or just unwinding after a long day. Great value, excellent service, and a prime spot—definitely planning to come back.

The staff at the hotel—Raymond, Alex, George, and Alston—were absolutely outstanding. From the moment I arrived, their professionalism and genuine warmth made me feel right at home. They went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect during my stay. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the Magnificent Mile, with easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions. I’m already planning my next visit and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone traveling to Chicago. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the Magnificent Mile, making it super convenient for shopping and sightseeing. The room was clean, spacious, and comfortable, with a great bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. I especially loved the breakfast—my favorite was the oatmeal, perfectly cooked and served warm with fresh fruit and toast. It felt like a homey touch that started the day right. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout. For the quality, price, and convenience, this place is unbeatable. I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip to Chicago!

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight—my parents and younger sister were all thoroughly impressed! The front desk staff were incredibly helpful, offering free luggage storage, which made our arrival so much smoother. The room itself was spacious and comfortable, with the added bonus of a built-in drinking water dispenser—no need to buy bottled water anymore. Best of all, it’s just a short walk from the lake and the scenic Magnificent Mile, making evening strolls absolutely perfect. The location is unbeatable, and the overall experience was top-notch. Highly recommend this hotel for families looking for comfort, convenience, and a great vibe in downtown Chicago.

Staying at the Best Western River North Hotel during my business trip to Chicago was a fantastic choice. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in smooth and stress-free. What stood out most was the neighborhood's safety—walking around day or night felt completely secure, which is rare in many urban areas. The location is unbeatable: everything downtown, from attractions to restaurants and shops, is just a short walk away. I appreciated how convenient it was for exploring the city without relying on taxis or long commutes. Plus, the value for money is outstanding—comfortable rooms, excellent service, and a great central spot all at a reasonable price. Definitely a top pick for future trips to Chicago.

I completely disagree with some of the negative reviews—this place is better than expected! We stayed in a spacious, recently renovated room with a ceiling fan and air conditioning, making it super comfortable. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the interior design has a modern, stylish vibe. There's also a shared kitchen available for guests, which is great if you want to prepare your own meals. Plus, the Magnificent Mile is just a 5-minute walk away—perfect for shopping and dining. Overall, the location, cleanliness, and value make this a solid choice for travelers looking for a convenient and pleasant stay in Chicago.

I’ll admit I was pretty skeptical about staying here after reading a bunch of negative reviews, especially those warning about hidden fees and cleanliness issues. But honestly, my experience completely changed my mind. From the moment we arrived, everything felt clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed—the hotel’s aesthetic is cohesive and stylish. Check-in was quick and smooth, and the front desk staff were genuinely helpful, answering all our questions, including ones about the fees listed on the website. While some guests complain about 'hidden' charges, they’re actually disclosed upfront—just not always easy to spot. If you read the fine print carefully during booking and check-in, there are no surprises. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for hanging clothes and multiple hangers. The locker-style closets matched the sporty, contemporary vibe perfectly. Floors and bathrooms were clean overall, though I did notice a spider in the shower corner—nothing alarming, just something to mention. Downstairs, there’s an open kitchen with a shared fridge and even a slow cooker—a nice touch! There are also fun games like ping pong and air hockey, making it great for couples or families. Free drinks are available, which is a welcome bonus. If noise from passing trains is a concern, I’d recommend asking for a room farther down the hall on the first floor. We were lucky—we stayed in a quiet area, barely noticed any train sounds (more like soft white noise), but earplugs might still help if you’re a light sleeper. Overall, I’d highly recommend this place. It’s well-located, the design stands out, and the stay was enjoyable. Just be aware of the $120 refundable deposit and the $50 guest fee—knowing these ahead of time makes a big difference. I’m genuinely grateful for the positive experience and would definitely come back.

The room felt outdated, and the furniture was extremely uncomfortable—hard to relax in. The air conditioner made a loud, disruptive noise, almost like an unbalanced washing machine running nonstop. We had to check out early due to schedule changes, but the front desk refused to accommodate us, claiming we’d have to pay a fee because we weren’t gold members—despite being silver members. That policy felt unfair and frustrating. Overall, the experience didn’t match expectations, especially given the price. Poor service, subpar amenities, and lack of flexibility make this stay far from recommended.
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